Flexible working rules are ‘existing practice’

The first draft of the Government’s flexible working regulations will
struggle to encourage more employers to increase the work-life balance of their
staff.

Published last week, the regulations – part of the Employment Act, due to
come into force next year – will mean employees with children under six have a
right to request flexible working.

However, employment law barrister Daniel Barnett said the regulations only
require employers to have a meeting with the member of staff requesting
flexible working hours and then provide the employee with a written explanation
for refusal.

"The regulations are not onerous," he said. "A meeting and
letter ensure compliance. This is no more than existing industrial
practice."